Changes to a Dunstable wildlife haven really will be a talking point at a special event.
Blow’s Downs Wildlife Trust Nature Reserve has been extended to compensate for wildlife habitat lost during the building of the Luton and Dunstable Guided Busway.
The trust team says the extension makes the nature reserve “a better place for wildlife and for local people”.
Three areas of land have been added on to the nature reserve as part of an agreement with Luton Borough Council.
Now the plan is to turn those new areas into flower-rich grassland for nature lovers to enjoy.
The trust is planning to run a series of wildlife-themed events and talks.
That starts with a talk next month about the community work and the management of the reserve.
And the trust team says this will also be a good opportunity to ask questions about the changes.
This event will take place on Monday, February 11, at Priory Academy, in Britain Street, Dunstable, from 7.45pm to 9.15pm.
Anyone who would like to go along to the talk should contact the trust team to reserve a place.
The team will also be talking about how schoolchildren and other people in the area are getting a chance “to see wildlife right on their doorstep in new and exciting ways”.
Blow’s Downs reserve officer Esther Clarke said: “Blow’s Downs is already such an important site for migratory birds, chalk grassland flowers and butterflies.
“But this extra land makes the reserve more resilient and provides even more opportunities for wildlife to thrive and for local people to enjoy it.”
The trust is encouraging the community to go along to the talk to find out about all that is going on at the nature reserve.
And the team says: “We look forward to warmly welcoming you.”
The trust’s website says the slopes of Blow’s Downs are home to what could be the largest population of great pignut in the country.
In the spring and autumn, visitors are attracted by the regular sight of migrant birds, feeding up before heading off again on their way to their nesting or wintering grounds.
Wheatear, stonechat, whinchat and ring ouzel are among visitors’ favourites.
> To book a seat at the talk, just contact Ruth Sneath or Esther Clarke on 01525 874317. Email ruth.sneath@wildlifebcn.org or esther.clarke@wildlifebcn.org.